There were no pies to be seen, the culinary choice of former Finance Minister and Prime Minister Bill English on Budget Day.

Some Newshub reporters waiting for the lock up to begin.
Photo credit: Newshub/ Henry McMullan

From 10:30am, analysts, treasury staff and journalists were in the 'lock-up' in the Beehive. They're given piles of documents outlining Budget 2018, which are under strict embargo until 2pm. There is no transmission in or out. A challenge.

Photo credit: Newshub/ Anna Bracewell Worrall

At midday, Finance Minister Grant Robertson gave a speech outlining the Budget, then there was a quick question and answer session:

Photo credit: Newshub/ Anna Bracewell Worrall

A team of Ministers (James Shaw, Shane Jones, David Parker, Megan Woods) were there for moral support during Mr Robertson's speech.

Photo credit: Newshub/ Anna Bracewell Worrall

The lunch spread included sausage rolls, mini pies, club sandwhiches, and these lamingtons representing Labour, Green and New Zealand First:

Lamingtons symbolising the coalition and confidence and supply agreements that make up the Government.
Photo credit: Newshub/ Anna Bracewell Worrall

By 2pm, the lockup had finished and reporters frantically published their stories as politicians made their way into the House.